Is Soma A Controlled Substance?

Soma belongs to the drug class of skeletal muscle relaxants. It is used to treat acute muscle discomfort and pain. It is usually used in combination with physical therapies, rest, and other treatments for better efficacy. Soma medication works by relaxing the muscles and altering the pain perceptions in the brain. However, it is seen that improper use of Soma can be addictive and has a potential for abuse and misuse. So, Is Soma a Controlled Substance? We have you covered, as this content provides a detailed answer to your query.

Is Soma A Controlled Substance?

The official site Nevada State Board of Pharmacy, states that Carisoprodol was legally classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance on July 13, 2004. Additionally, this board provides a list of guidelines for medical practitioners, pharmacists or pharmacies, and wholesalers. This guideline is for a better understanding of the process of this classification and the safe retailing of this medicine.

For practitioners -

• All prescriptions for Soma as of 1st August 2004 must follow the guidelines of controlled substance prescription.

• Dispensing practitioners must immediately secure and store Soma as a controlled substance. Requirements of recordkeeping of controlled substances must also be applied. 

For Wholesalers -

Wholesalers are required to update Soma as a controlled substance in their recordkeeping when distributing into or out of the United States (Nevada). They should store the medication adhering to the controlled substance storing guidelines.

For Pharmacies and Pharmacists -

• All new prescriptions for Soma muscle relaxers after August 1, 2004, should be considered as controlled substance prescriptions. Those unaware of this new regulation should locate the prescription and make the necessary updates for controlled substances.

• Prescriptions prior to the above-mentioned date will be classified as controlled substance prescriptions upon medicine refilling. Moreover, issuing of new prescriptions is mandatory after the fifth refilling [1].

• All Soma pill prescriptions beginning September 2004 should be reported to the Prescription Controlled Substance Abuse Prevention Task Force. Additionally, changes should be made to recording this requirement.

• Soma medicines should be considered controlled substances in all inventories.

Legal Status and Prescription Restriction Of Soma Pills

The legal status of Soma pills varies as per the respective countries and states. In general, it is illegal to sell Soma pills without a prescription and abuse it or sell them without a license [4]. 

Table: Soma controlled substance legal status

Dosage And Administration

Proper dosage and administration of Soma pills are mandatory to avoid abuse potential and habit formation. The standard dosages of Soma are Soma 350 mg and Soma 500 mg. It is advisable to take a single dose of the medicine orally with plain water. Patients should maintain a gap of 5 to 6 hours between each dose of the medication.

One should not take the Soma pills for more than 3 weeks. Long-term use of which can cause withdrawal, abuse, and addiction [5]. Therefore, it is advisable to follow the strict prescription instructions of a healthcare professional.

Precautions And Warnings 

• Children below 17 years and adults above 67 years should not take Soma medicine.

• Pregnant and lactating mothers should consult a doctor before taking the muscle relaxer.

• Do not drive or operate heavy machinery, as the Soma pill can cause sleepiness and blurry vision.

• Patients suffering from kidney and liver diseases or any other health condition should take prior consultation.

• Avoid drinking alcohol with Soma, as the interaction can cause intoxication[3].

• Common side effects of Soma pills are sleepiness, dizziness, or headache. If you experience severe or any other symptoms, seek immediate medical help.

Summary

Soma (Carisoprodol) is a skeletal muscle relaxant prescribed for acute pain. It has been categorized as a Schedule IV drug under the Controlled Substances Act. As the pain medication can be habit-forming and has abuse potential, hence proper administration is recommended. 

You can also go through our Soma vs Robaxin blog to get a better understanding of Carisoprodol and what makes it a better choice of treatment compared to other muscle relaxers such as Robaxin.